Jim examines the growing inequality in American society, particularly as it affects disadvantaged youth; entrepreneurial approaches to poverty alleviation, job creation and community development; interethnic minority conflict in advanced industrial societies; and business demography and workforce diversity issues.

He is also the William R. Kenan Jr. Distinguished Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship at Kenan-Flagler Business School and director of the Urban Investment Strategies Center, an institute-affiliated center.

Jim received a doctorate degree from Michigan State University, a master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin at Madison and a bachelor’s degree from North Carolina Central University.